Youth Programs
Learn, play, explore
Every year, thousands of children and youth join us to learn, play and explore in our outdoor classroom. Since 1959, we have played an integral part in developing unique outdoor education programs in British Columbia and beyond. Our action-packed adventure programs foster positive learning experiences for all, teaching participants the wonder, spirit and worth of people and the natural world through outdoor pursuits.
We would like to recognize and show respect to the First Nations of the Nuu-chah-nulth, Kwakwaka’wakw, and the Coast Salish traditions on whose traditional and unceded territories we reside on. We want to express our gratitude to the Liǧʷiłdax̌ʷ, Kwakwaka’wakw A̱wi’nagwis, K’ómoks, We Wai Kum, We Wai Kai, and nuučaan̓uuɫɁatḥ nism̓a and we strive to travel, work, and live on their lands with respect.
Our Philosophy
Connect, Respect, Ripple Effect. We are passionate about investing in youth and providing young people with life-changing outdoor experiences. Our youth programs are the heart and soul of Strathcona Park Lodge.
WYLD Camps
Wilderness Youth Leadership Development (WYLD) expeditions are 5-12 day long summer camps for teens, ages 12-17. Campers travel into the wilderness playground that is Strathcona Provincial Park. Along the way they will canoe, hike, camp beneath the stars, learn skills to navigate the backcountry, and create lasting connections.
Learn More
WYLD Discovery Camp
Learn the foundations of backcountry travel, while exploring Buttle Lake by canoe and hike to one of Strathcona Park’s hidden jewels, Landslide Lake.
WYLD Backcountry Beginnings
Experience the delights of a multi-day canoe trip, take on rewarding hikes up into Vancouver Island’s subalpine, while learning to be self-sufficient in the backcountry.
WYLD Backcountry Classic
This 12-day multi-sport expedition into the wild Strathcona alpine is our most challenging camp. And it’s worth it.
Schools
Our interactive outdoor education programs challenge, inspire and enlighten youth in a positive and exciting environment. Our school programs have become a rite of passage for hundreds of thousands of students who have learned in our outdoor classroom.
Youth Organizations
We design custom outdoor programs to meet the needs of a variety of youth organizations and teams. From one-day activities to three-week camps, we work with you to develop the perfect experience for your participants.
Run WYLD Scholarship
Run WYLD is a fundraising initiative started in 2020 by Sophie O’Brien to create more accessible outdoor opportunities for underserved youth living in remote communities. Funds directly support youth from School District 84 (Gold River, Tahsis, Zeballos, and Kyuquot) in attending 5-12 day Wilderness Youth Leadership Development Programs at SPL.
"It's 11:30 am and the first lunch bell is ringing clear and piercing outside the Whale Room. It's been raining since yesterday, but if you look around all you see are smiles and excitement. Girls are running from all corners of the property, rubber boots slapping, all the colours of the rainbow in their Goretex jackets. They are flush with discovery, accomplishment, and anticipation of further adventure. AT SPL, challenge meets you where you are at and then fuels you with great food and warm words to get you ready for your next feat"
– Jennifer van Hardenberg - St. Margaret's School
Activites
At SPL we value hands on learning and are committed to creating unique experiences that stick with participants. Along with much more, our activities and programs foster teamwork, skill development, and adventure.
Site & Facilites
Strathcona Park Lodge isn’t a single lodge building, but rather a collection of eclectic cabins, chalet buildings, and, indoor and outdoor events spaces perfect for group programs, retreats, and gatherings. Our 160 acre property includes lakefront, hiking trails, spectacular viewpoints, climbing bluffs and so much more. Come explore!
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning outdoor adventures for children and youth is our specialty, we are always happy to connect, talk about outdoor education, and answer any of your questions.
